Administrative Professionals’ Day is not an official holiday; still it is a widely celebrated day around the world. The organization behind the movement, the International Association of Administrative Professionals’ (IAAP), consists of more than 9,000 support personnel including secretaries, receptionists, and executive assistants. Here are a few historical facts about this upcoming day of recognition, observed this year on April 27.

The “holiday” was originally conceived jointly by the National Secretaries Association and the Dictaphone Corporation. The original purpose was “to recognize the secretary, upon whose skills, loyalty, and efficiency the functions of business and government offices depend on, and to make people aware ‘through favorable publicity the tremendous potential of the secretarial career.”

The first National Secretaries Week was observed in 1952; it was the first week of June. The date was moved to the last week of April soon after, in 1955.

The name changes throughout the years reflect the changing policies and values in the workplace. In 1981, the name was changed from National Secretaries Week to Professional Secretaries Week. In 2000, the name was changed again to Administrative Professional’s Week.

The day is more than a chance for a free lunch. Events take place around the globe, including community events, corporate activities, networking opportunities and social events.

The IAAP also champions ongoing education for their members; and offer a designation called the Certified Administrative Professional, which requires passing a standardized test.

While we also celebrate Employee Appreciation Day, Boss’s Day, and Labor Day; this day specifically recognizes the contributions of an oft-overlooked office hero.

If you are looking to honor your most valuable employees, look to Griffin’s Floral Designs. No matter the vibe of your office, be it sophisticated or casual – we have the best exotic flowers, green plants and gourmet gift baskets for the job. Your administrative personnel represents your company, keep your calendar moving and juggle a hundred different details at once – for all that work, make sure that they receive a token of your appreciation, The date is April 27 – so let us get started!